Many religious-faith groups have programs of intensive religious education for individual Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers and Sea Scouts. Religious Emblems are designed to recognize youth and adults who demonstrate faith, observe the creeds or principles of the faith, and give service. Religious emblems are not Scouting awards; they are presented by religious groups to youth who earn them.

The Religious Emblems programs are administered by various religious institutions and recognized, but not sponsored, by the BSA. These are generally recognized by a medal and an embroidered square knot. In some denominations, four different awards may be available. For instance, here are the non-denominational Protestant Award programs from PRAY Publishing:

The silver square knot on a purple background, No. 5007, is permanently displayed on the uniform above the left pocket to denote that the wearer has received the corresponding award as a youth. If he earns additional youth religious awards for various levels, he can wear up to four different devices on one knot, but only one silver on purple knot is worn. If a religious award is earned as a Cub Scout, the youth knot and devices may be worn on all subsequent uniforms: Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Venturer, Sea Scout, and Scouter. Adult leaders can also be recognized with an Adult Religious Emblem which is recognized with a purple square knot on a silver background, No. 5014.

Some programs allow Girl Scouts or youth not in Scouting to participate in these same programs and be presented with the same medals but only a member of the Boy Scouts America can wear the BSA knots.

The medals are usually only worn on special occasions, pinned immediately above the top of the left pocket flap of the uniform shirt.

Youth may earn an emblem whether or not they are members of a unit operated by a religious organization. The intent of the program is to work directly with your own religious leader or, in some cases, a layperson designated by that religious leader.

To encourage members to grow stronger in their faith, religious groups have developed the following religious emblems programs. The Boy Scouts of America has approved of these programs and allows the emblems to be worn on the official uniform. The various religious groups administer the programs. Check with your local council service center or contact the religious organization directly to obtain the curriculum booklets.

Listed below are the emblems and where to find out about them. Before writing or visiting your local council service center, check with your religious leader.